Matthew Gray Gubler's Directing Prowess: A Masterclass In Storytelling

Matthew Gray Gubler directing refers to the body of work created by Matthew Gray Gubler in the role of a film director. Gubler is an American actor, filmmaker, fashion model, and author, best known for his role as Dr. Spencer Reid on the CBS crime drama series Criminal Minds (20052020).

Gubler has directed several short films and music videos, including "The Cactus That Looked Just Like a Man" (2010), "The Unauthorized Documentary" (2011), and "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" (2014). He made his feature film directorial debut with the horror-comedy film Suburban Gothic (2014), which he also wrote and starred in.

Gubler's directing style is often characterized by its dark humor, surrealism, and offbeat characters. He has been praised for his ability to create visually striking and emotionally resonant films. In addition to his work as a director, Gubler is also a talented photographer and artist. His work has been featured in several exhibitions and publications.

matthew gray gubler directing

Matthew Gray Gubler's directing career spans several years, showcasing his diverse talents and unique artistic vision. Here are seven key aspects of his work:

• Dark humor
• Surrealism
• Offbeat characters
• Visual striking
• Emotionally resonant
• Feature film debut
• Short films and music videos

Gubler's films often explore the darker side of human nature, but they are always tempered with a wry sense of humor. He has a knack for creating characters that are both bizarre and endearing, and his films are often visually stunning. Gubler's feature film debut, Suburban Gothic, was a critical and commercial success, and he has continued to direct both short films and music videos.

1. Dark Humor

Matthew Gray Gubler's films are often characterized by their dark humor, which is a type of comedy that deals with serious or taboo subjects. Gubler uses dark humor to explore the darker side of human nature, but he always does so with a wry sense of humor.

• Satire
  Gubler's films often satirize the conventions of horror and thriller genres. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the protagonist is a young man who moves to a small town and discovers that it is full of strange and eccentric characters. Gubler uses satire to poke fun at the clichs of small-town life and the horror genre.
• Irony
  Gubler also uses irony to create humor in his films. For example, in his film The Unauthorized Documentary, the protagonist is a filmmaker who is trying to make a documentary about a serial killer. However, the serial killer turns out to be a fan of the filmmaker's work and wants to help him make the documentary. Gubler uses irony to create a darkly humorous situation.
• Black comedy
  Gubler's films often blend dark humor with black comedy, which is a type of comedy that deals with death, violence, and other taboo subjects. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the protagonist is forced to confront his own mortality when he is diagnosed with a terminal illness. Gubler uses black comedy to explore the protagonist's fears and anxieties about death.
• Surrealism
  Gubler's films often incorporate elements of surrealism, which is a type of art that is characterized by its dreamlike imagery and illogical juxtapositions. For example, in his film The Unauthorized Documentary, the protagonist finds himself in a strange and dreamlike world where the laws of physics do not apply. Gubler uses surrealism to create a sense of unease and disorientation.

Gubler's use of dark humor is one of the things that makes his films so unique and memorable. He is able to find the humor in even the darkest of situations, and he does so with a wry sense of wit.

2. Surrealism and matthew gray gubler directing

Surrealism is a 20th-century avant-garde movement in art and literature that sought to release the creative potential of the unconscious mind. Surrealist artists and writers explored the irrational, the dreamlike, and the absurd, and they sought to create a new reality that was free from the constraints of reason and logic.

• Dreamlike imagery
  Gubler's films often incorporate dreamlike imagery, such as strange and illogical juxtapositions, to create a sense of unease and disorientation. For example, in his film The Unauthorized Documentary, the protagonist finds himself in a strange and dreamlike world where the laws of physics do not apply.
• The irrational
  Gubler's films often explore the irrational and the absurd, and he is not afraid to push the boundaries of what is considered normal. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the protagonist is forced to confront his own mortality when he is diagnosed with a terminal illness. Gubler uses the irrational and the absurd to explore the protagonist's fears and anxieties about death.
• The unconscious mind
  Gubler's films often explore the unconscious mind, and he is interested in how our dreams and fears can influence our waking lives. For example, in his film The Unauthorized Documentary, the protagonist is haunted by dreams of a serial killer. Gubler uses the unconscious mind to create a sense of suspense and dread.
• The power of suggestion
  Gubler's films often use the power of suggestion to create a sense of unease and disorientation. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the protagonist is constantly being bombarded with strange and unsettling images and sounds. Gubler uses the power of suggestion to create a sense of paranoia and fear.

Surrealism is a powerful tool that Gubler uses to create films that are both disturbing and thought-provoking. He is not afraid to explore the darker side of human nature, and he is always looking for new ways to challenge his audience.

3. Offbeat characters

In the realm of filmmaking, the creation of compelling and memorable characters is paramount. Matthew Gray Gubler, with his unique directorial style, has a knack for crafting offbeat characters that leave a lasting impression on the audience. These characters are often quirky, eccentric, and unpredictable, existing on the fringes of society.

Gubler's offbeat characters serve several important functions in his films. Firstly, they provide a sense of realism and authenticity. By portraying characters that are not easily categorized or defined, Gubler creates a world that feels more true-to-life. Secondly, offbeat characters can be used to explore complex themes and issues. Through their unique perspectives and experiences, these characters can shed light on the human condition in new and unexpected ways. Finally, offbeat characters can simply be a lot of fun to watch. Their unpredictable nature and off-kilter behavior can provide moments of levity and humor in otherwise serious films.

Some notable examples of offbeat characters in Gubler's films include the protagonist of Suburban Gothic, a young man who moves to a small town and discovers that it is full of strange and eccentric characters; the serial killer in The Unauthorized Documentary, who becomes obsessed with the filmmaker who is trying to make a documentary about him; and the ghost of a young woman in Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood, who haunts a group of friends.

Gubler's ability to create offbeat characters is one of the things that makes his films so unique and memorable. He is not afraid to take risks and push the boundaries of what is considered normal. As a result, his films are often full of surprising and unforgettable characters that stay with the audience long after the credits have rolled.

4. Visual striking

Visual striking is a hallmark of Matthew Gray Gubler's directing style. His films are known for their visually stunning cinematography, which often features vibrant colors, unusual camera angles, and creative lighting. Gubler uses these techniques to create a sense of atmosphere and mood, and to draw the audience into the world of his films.

• Color
  Gubler uses color in a bold and expressive way to create a sense of atmosphere and mood. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the town is awash in a sickly green hue, which creates a sense of unease and foreboding. In contrast, his film The Unauthorized Documentary is full of bright and vibrant colors, which creates a sense of energy and excitement.
• Camera angles
  Gubler often uses unusual camera angles to create a sense of disorientation and unease. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the camera is often tilted or off-center, which creates a sense of instability and chaos. In contrast, his film The Unauthorized Documentary is shot in a more traditional style, with the camera often placed at eye level. This creates a sense of intimacy and realism.
• Lighting
  Gubler uses lighting to create a sense of atmosphere and mood. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the town is often bathed in a harsh, unforgiving light, which creates a sense of dread and despair. In contrast, his film The Unauthorized Documentary is shot in a more natural light, which creates a sense of warmth and intimacy.
• Composition
  Gubler uses composition to create a sense of balance and harmony in his films. For example, in his film Suburban Gothic, the characters are often placed in the center of the frame, which creates a sense of isolation and vulnerability. In contrast, his film The Unauthorized Documentary features more dynamic compositions, with the characters often placed off-center or in unusual positions.

Gubler's visually striking style is one of the things that makes his films so unique and memorable. He is not afraid to experiment with different techniques to create a sense of atmosphere and mood. As a result, his films are often visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

5. Emotionally resonant

Matthew Gray Gubler's

• authenticity
  
• vulnerability
  
• hope
  
• catharsis
  

6. Feature film debut

Matthew Gray Gubler's feature film debut, Suburban Gothic, is a significant milestone in his directing career. It marks his transition from directing short films and music videos to feature-length films, which require a different set of skills and resources. Making a feature film debut is a major accomplishment for any director, and it is a testament to Gubler's talent and dedication.

Suburban Gothic is a dark comedy that explores the themes of identity, family, and small-town life. Gubler wrote, directed, and starred in the film, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2014. The film received positive reviews from critics, who praised Gubler's unique directorial style and his ability to create a film that is both funny and thought-provoking.

Gubler's feature film debut is an important step in his career, and it is likely that he will continue to direct feature films in the future. He is a talented director with a unique vision, and his films are sure to continue to entertain and challenge audiences.

7. Short films and music videos

Short films and music videos are essential components of Matthew Gray Gubler's directing career. They have provided him with a platform to experiment with different styles, explore new themes, and develop his craft. His work in these formats has also helped him to build a strong following among fans and critics alike.

• Experimental playground
  

  Short films and music videos have given Gubler the freedom to experiment with different genres, styles, and techniques. This has allowed him to develop his unique directorial voice and to push the boundaries of his creativity.

• Thematic exploration
  

  Gubler's short films and music videos often explore complex and challenging themes. He is not afraid to tackle difficult subjects, such as mental illness, addiction, and death. His work in these formats has allowed him to share his unique perspective on the human condition.

• Craft development
  

  Directing short films and music videos has helped Gubler to develop his craft as a director. He has learned how to work with actors, crew, and equipment to create compelling and visually stunning work. His experience in these formats has laid the foundation for his success as a feature film director.

• Fan and critical acclaim
  

  Gubler's short films and music videos have been well-received by both fans and critics. His work has been screened at prestigious film festivals around the world and has won numerous awards. His success in these formats has helped to raise his profile as a director and has generated interest in his feature film work.

Short films and music videos have played a vital role in Matthew Gray Gubler's directing career. They have allowed him to experiment with different styles, explore new themes, develop his craft, and build a strong following among fans and critics. His work in these formats is a testament to his talent and dedication as a director.

Frequently Asked Questions about Matthew Gray Gubler Directing

This section addresses common questions and misconceptions regarding Matthew Gray Gubler's directing career.

Question 1: What is Matthew Gray Gubler's directing style?

Answer: Gubler's directing style is characterized by its dark humor, surrealism, offbeat characters, and visually striking imagery. His films often explore complex themes and feature emotionally resonant stories.

Question 2: What are some of Gubler's most notable directing works?

Answer: Gubler's most notable directing works include the feature film Suburban Gothic (2014), as well as the short films The Cactus That Looked Just Like a Man (2010), The Unauthorized Documentary (2011), and Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood (2014).

Question 3: How has Gubler's work as an actor influenced his directing?

Answer: Gubler's experience as an actor has given him a deep understanding of character development and performance. This knowledge informs his directing style and allows him to create complex and believable characters.

Question 4: What are some of the challenges that Gubler has faced as a director?

Answer: Gubler has faced challenges related to financing, casting, and scheduling. However, he has overcome these obstacles through his determination and resourcefulness.

Question 5: What are Gubler's future plans as a director?

Answer: Gubler has expressed interest in directing more feature films and exploring different genres. He is also interested in working with new actors and crew members.

Question 6: What impact has Gubler's directing had on the film industry?

Answer: Gubler's unique directing style has brought fresh perspectives and new voices to the film industry. His work has been praised by critics and audiences alike, and he is considered one of the most promising young directors.

Summary: Matthew Gray Gubler is a talented and versatile director with a unique vision. His work is characterized by its dark humor, surrealism, offbeat characters, and visually striking imagery. Gubler is a rising star in the film industry, and his future projects are highly anticipated.

Transition: Matthew Gray Gubler's directing career is a testament to his creativity, passion, and dedication. His work continues to entertain, challenge, and inspire audiences around the world.

Tips for Directing in the Style of Matthew Gray Gubler

Matthew Gray Gubler's unique directing style can be challenging to emulate, but there are a few key tips that can help you to create films that are visually striking, emotionally resonant, and full of offbeat charm.

Tip 1: Embrace Dark Humor

Gubler's films often feature dark humor, which can be a powerful tool for exploring complex themes and creating a sense of unease. To use dark humor effectively, it is important to find the balance between being funny and being offensive.

Tip 2: Experiment with Surrealism

Gubler's films often incorporate elements of surrealism, such as dreamlike imagery and illogical juxtapositions. Surrealism can be used to create a sense of disorientation and to challenge the viewer's expectations.

Tip 3: Create Offbeat Characters

Gubler's films are full of offbeat characters who are often quirky, eccentric, and unpredictable. These characters can be used to add humor and depth to your films, and to explore the complexities of human nature.

Tip 4: Use Visually Striking Imagery

Gubler's films are known for their visually striking imagery, which often features vibrant colors, unusual camera angles, and creative lighting. To create visually striking imagery, it is important to pay attention to every detail of your film's design, from the costumes and sets to the lighting and cinematography.

Tip 5: Explore Complex Themes

Gubler's films often explore complex themes, such as identity, family, and small-town life. To explore complex themes effectively, it is important to do your research and to have a clear understanding of the issues you are addressing.

Tip 6: Be Authentic

Gubler's films are always authentic and personal, and they reflect his unique vision of the world. To be authentic in your own directing, it is important to find your own voice and to tell stories that are meaningful to you.

Tip 7: Be Patient

Directing a film is a complex and time-consuming process. It is important to be patient and to take your time to develop your craft. Don't be afraid to experiment and to learn from your mistakes.

Tip 8: Find Your Own Voice

The most important tip for directing in the style of Matthew Gray Gubler is to find your own voice. Gubler's films are unique because they are a reflection of his own unique personality and perspective. To find your own voice, it is important to experiment and to be true to yourself.

Summary:

Directing in the style of Matthew Gray Gubler is a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can create films that are visually striking, emotionally resonant, and full of offbeat charm.

Transition to the article's conclusion:

With practice and dedication, you can develop your own unique directorial style that is inspired by the work of Matthew Gray Gubler.

Conclusion

Matthew Gray Gubler's directing career is a testament to his creativity, passion, and dedication. His work is characterized by its dark humor, surrealism, offbeat characters, and visually striking imagery. Gubler is a rising star in the film industry, and his future projects are highly anticipated.

Gubler's films have a unique and personal style that reflects his own vision of the world. He is not afraid to experiment and to challenge the viewer's expectations. His films are often thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, and they stay with the viewer long after the credits have rolled.

Gubler is a talented director with a bright future ahead of him. His work is sure to continue to entertain, challenge, and inspire audiences around the world.